18,000 students approved for help

More than 18,000 students hoping to start college next month have been approved for financial assistance, to aid likely costs. 

They should now be fully prepared to plan budgeting for accommodation and other costs if they get offered a college course on Monday from the CAO.

The newly approved applicants are among about 52,000 who have been notified by Student Universal Support Ireland that they will have fees covered. Most will also receive maintenance grants up to almost €6,000.